Old City Neighborhood Overview
Old City: Troy's Historic Heart
Nestled along the eastern bank of the Hudson River, Old City is the historic and architectural core of Troy, New York. This neighborhood, centered around the iconic Washington Park and the bustling River Street, represents one of the most intact and vibrant 19th-century urban districts in the United States. Its streetscapes are a living museum of Victorian, Greek Revival, and Italianate architecture, telling the story of Troy's prosperous past as a major industrial center for iron, steel, and collar-and-cuff manufacturing. The area's location is strategic, offering immediate access to downtown amenities while maintaining a distinct, village-like atmosphere within the larger city framework.
Today, Old City is a dynamic blend of preserved history and contemporary energy. It serves as the cultural and culinary hub of the Capital Region, attracting residents, students from nearby Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), and visitors alike. The neighborhood's walkable grid, anchored by the picturesque Riverfront Park, fosters a strong sense of community and place. Its successful revitalization, driven by historic preservation efforts and private investment, has made it a model for urban renaissance in upstate New York, balancing modern economic vitality with profound respect for its architectural heritage.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in Old City is predominantly composed of historic properties, ranging from grand, single-family brownstones and townhomes to meticulously restored multi-unit buildings and converted loft spaces in former industrial buildings. Many homes feature original details such as intricate woodwork, stained glass, pocket doors, and high ceilings. The median home value of $359,300 reflects the premium placed on these historic, character-rich properties, with prices varying significantly based on size, condition, and specific location—homes facing Washington Park or with river views command the highest values.
The neighborhood exhibits a mixed ownership and rental profile. While a significant portion of residents are owner-occupants invested in the long-term stewardship of their historic homes, there is also a substantial rental market catering to professionals, empty-nesters, and graduate students. Recent trends show a sustained demand for high-quality renovations and a competitive market for turn-key historic properties. New development is carefully integrated, often involving adaptive reuse projects that add modern condominiums or apartments to the fabric without compromising the district's historic integrity.
Lifestyle & Amenities
Old City offers an exceptionally walkable, amenity-rich urban lifestyle. The neighborhood is the epicenter of Troy's celebrated food and arts scene. River Street and surrounding blocks are lined with an impressive array of independent restaurants, cafes, craft breweries, and boutique shops. Landmarks like the Troy Farmers Market—one of the largest in the state—and the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, a world-renowned acoustic venue, provide weekly cultural anchors. For daily needs, residents have access to specialty grocers, bakeries, and service-oriented retail within a short walk.
Recreation is centered on the neighborhood's beautiful green spaces. Washington Park, a 12-acre oasis designed by the same architects as New York City's Central Park, offers walking paths, gardens, and community events. The nearby Riverfront Park provides trails, seating, and direct access to the Hudson River. Public transit via CDTA bus lines is robust, with easy connections to Albany, Schenectady, and RPI. The walkability score is exceptionally high, allowing many residents to live a car-optional lifestyle, further enhanced by bike-friendly streets and proximity to major employers and institutions.
Schools & Education
Old City is served by the Enlarged City School District of Troy, with several schools located in or adjacent to the neighborhood. School 2, a historic building, serves younger grades, while Troy Middle School and Troy High School are a short distance away. The district offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs, and the community's high median income often correlates with strong parental involvement and support for local schools. Families in the neighborhood are also served by several nearby private and parochial school options, expanding educational choices.
The neighborhood's educational landscape is profoundly shaped by its proximity to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), a top-tier technological research university. This relationship influences the community through cultural programming, employment, and a steady presence of faculty, staff, and graduate students. Furthermore, the world-renowned Emma Willard School, an independent college-preparatory boarding and day school for young women, is located just east of the neighborhood, adding to the area's concentration of esteemed educational institutions and contributing to its intellectually engaged character.
Community & Demographics
Old City is characterized by a well-educated, professional, and economically stable demographic profile, as evidenced by its median household income of $105,333—significantly above the city and regional averages. The population is a diverse mix of young professionals, established families, empty-nesters, academics, and artists. This creates a dynamic intergenerational community with a shared appreciation for historic preservation, urban living, and cultural engagement. The presence of RPI and other institutions contributes to a population with a high percentage of graduate and professional degrees.
The community character is active and civically engaged. Residents participate in neighborhood associations like the Washington Park Association, which organizes events and advocates for preservation. The age distribution is broad, with a notable concentration of adults aged 25-44 and 55-74, reflecting both the appeal to career-starters and downsizers. This blend fosters a neighborhood that is both energetic and stable, with a strong sense of collective identity and pride in maintaining Old City as the beautiful, thriving heart of Troy.
Real Estate Market Insights
For real estate professionals, Old City represents a high-demand, low-inventory market with significant investment potential. The neighborhood's status as a historic district ensures architectural continuity and protects long-term value, while its amenity-rich, walkable core aligns perfectly with modern buyer preferences. The median home value of $359,300, while a premium for the region, remains attractive compared to similar historic neighborhoods in larger metropolitan areas, suggesting continued room for appreciation. Investment opportunities exist in both the careful restoration of single-family homes and the conversion of upper-floor spaces in mixed-use buildings.
Current market dynamics favor sellers, with desirable properties receiving multiple offers and selling quickly, often above asking price. The buyer pool is discerning, valuing authenticity, quality renovations, and location. For agents, success requires deep knowledge of historic building systems, preservation guidelines, and the unique character of individual blocks. Old City matters because it is the leading indicator of Troy's overall real estate health; its strength elevates the entire city's market. Its proven resilience and sustained desira
Top Real Estate Agents in Old City, Troy
Merit Criteria — Agents must hold an active license verified by
Virginia Real Estate Board (VREB), maintain a minimum 4.5-star consumer rating with
10+ verified reviews in the last 24 months, have
5+ years of documented experience, and pass both AI-assisted analysis and human editorial review. Fewer than 1% of licensed agents in covered markets qualify. No agent can pay for inclusion or ranking position.
24 agents met the full merit gate for Old City, Troy, VA, selected from over 65,000 licensed Virginia professionals.
5.0 stars
272+ verified reviews
License: 1394348
KW Advisors
25+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 205-4369
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.thegundermangroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/David%20Gunderman
Why selected: Selected for his extensive community leadership, including board roles with East Bay School for Boys and the San Francisco Zen Center. He further demonstrates elite performance with 272 five-star reviews and national ranking recognition.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
125+ verified reviews
License: 1867911
Compass
24+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (415) 335-8616
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.compass.com/agents/andrew-pitarre/?referrer=listing_page
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Andrew%20Pitarre
Why selected: Selected for his community leadership as a real estate expert contributor for the Rockridge community newsletter. He combines this with a 5-star rating across 125 reviews and over 23 years of expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
92+ verified reviews
License: 1475854
Cassel and Brown Real Estate Partners
23+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (415) 310-0066
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.anthonyecassel.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Anthony%20Cassel
Why selected: Selected for his founding role in the charitable initiative Cassel & Brown Cares, demonstrating deep community commitment. This leadership is supported by over 800 families served, $1 billion+ in sales, and 92 five-star reviews.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
84+ verified reviews
License: 2254670
The Grubb Company
22+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 472-3074
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.shellyflynn.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ShellyFlynn
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement and leadership over 20+ years, combined with a perfect 5-star rating from 84 reviews. Her specialized finance expertise provides exceptional client value in complex transactions.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
83+ verified reviews
License: 1265201
Vanguard Properties
26+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 757-4787
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.annefestegroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Anne%20Feste
Why selected: Selected for her exceptional quantifiable performance, ranking in the top 1% for local sales volume with over $300 million sold. She further distinguishes herself with a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) designation and a perfect 5-star rating from 83 reviews.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
68+ verified reviews
License: 2028425
Keller Williams Luxury International
8+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 768-8228
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.hansandkristin.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/hans571
Why selected: Selected for his dedicated community involvement and leadership roles. He combines an 8-year track record in Oakland's luxury market with strong performance metrics and specialized KW Luxury credentials.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
64+ verified reviews
License: 2129404
Bay Area Modern Real Estate
13+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (415) 216-5653
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.moderngreenhomes.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ary1
Why selected: Selected for his advocacy in environmental stewardship initiatives and community leadership. He combines 15 years of industry experience with exceptional 5-star ratings from 64 client reviews.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
63+ verified reviews
License: 1753412
Compass
19+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 331-5153
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.zumborealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Giuseppe%20Zumbo
Why selected: Selected for his extensive community leadership and board positions, which are paramount in our ranking. He combines this with a 17-year track record and deep expertise in complex Bay Area multi-family sales.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
4.9 stars
57+ verified reviews
License: 1721382
Red Oak Realty
20+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 472-4770
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.gregnovakrealtor.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Greg%20Novak%20Realtor
Why selected: Selected for their active community leadership and charitable work. This is combined with a 5.0-star rating from over 100 client reviews and deep expertise as a Realtor-Investor.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
54+ verified reviews
License: 2051722
Relentless Real Estate
6+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 928-9418
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://sellrelentless.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ranjitksingh
Why selected: Selected for his active support of community charitable initiatives and volunteer efforts, which is our highest-ranking criterion. He also maintains a perfect 5-star rating across 54 client reviews and has earned professional media features.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
42+ verified reviews
License: 1967133
Compass
10+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 374-9698
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.lovebayagent.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Hakeem%20Love
Why selected: Selected for his deep community ties and leadership as a relocation specialist bridging Hawaii and California. He combines over a decade of experience with strong performance metrics and unique expertise as an investor advising on vacation and investment properties.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
42+ verified reviews
License: 1342117
Red Oak Realty
19+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 226-8788
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.ezfletcher.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Bill%20and%20Eli
Why selected: Selected for his active community involvement through charitable donations and volunteer work with local organizations. He is backed by 42 five-star reviews and a remarkable 90% repeat/referral business rate from nearly two decades of experience.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
40+ verified reviews
License: 1883687
Compass
17+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 396-1377
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://annietegner.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AnnieTegner
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated volunteer role as a Wish Grantor with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, demonstrating exceptional community commitment. She is further distinguished by 40 five-star reviews and over 15 years of market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
39+ verified reviews
License: 1885597
Soodo Real Estate
21+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 761-9536
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.soodo.us/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Soodo%20Real%20Estate
Why selected: Selected for his significant community leadership roles and charitable work. He combines this with a 14-year track record of quantifiable success, doubling his business yearly in the Bay Area's competitive market.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
36+ verified reviews
License: 1487667
eXp Realty of California, Inc.
20+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 774-9490
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.fastexpert.com/agents/anna-oliver-66012/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AnnaeXp
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community leadership as a REALTIST with the Oakland NAREB chapter, promoting housing equality. She combines 20 years of experience with exceptional client feedback, 36 five-star reviews, and $10M in annual sales.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
34+ verified reviews
License: 1942824
Compass
15+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 590-0963
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.alexmichas.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Alex%20Michas
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement and leadership roles, Alex Michas also demonstrates exceptional performance with 34 five-star reviews and record-breaking sales like the $23M 26 Sea View transaction.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
34+ verified reviews
License: 1872342
eXp Realty of California, Inc
7+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 660-1452
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Agent%20Ochoa
Why selected: Selected for his dedicated community support and leadership in strengthening neighborhoods. He combines this with a perfect 5-star rating from 34 reviews and over six years of expert market guidance.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
33+ verified reviews
License: 1977223
Vanguard Properties
10+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (415) 535-2996
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.eastbakergroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/glenniekramerbaker
Why selected: Selected for her leadership of the East Baker Group and deep community involvement. She combines over a decade of experience with strong market knowledge and a proven commitment to her clients.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
33+ verified reviews
License: 1917810
Compass
13+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 459-7673
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.compass.com/agents/anna-bahnson/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/annabahnson
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement and leadership roles, combined with 33 five-star reviews and a unique, client-protective expertise drawn from her construction industry background.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
33+ verified reviews
License: 1372885
Sotheby's International Realty
24+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 693-7931
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.anthonyriggins.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Anthony%20Riggins
Why selected: Selected for his active leadership and mentorship within the real estate professional community. He is a top national producer with over $750M in sales, 33 five-star reviews, and consistent #1 East Bay team ranking.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
29+ verified reviews
License: 1929239
Abio Properties
12+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (415) 385-0220
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://abioproperties.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/andrea4334
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community involvement and leadership roles. She is further distinguished by her 29 five-star reviews and over a decade of experience providing thorough client guidance.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
28+ verified reviews
License: 1716499
Vanguard Properties
20+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 332-5747
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://vanguardproperties.com/agents/ann-lovi
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AnnLovi
Why selected: Selected for dedicated community service and professional excellence, demonstrated through performance, ranking in the top 1.5% of realtors nationally with over $225M in career sales and a perfect 5-star rating. Her deep market expertise, honed over nearly two decades, consistently delivers outstanding client results.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
27+ verified reviews
License: 1138169
Golden Gate Sotheby's International Realty
23+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 886-2662
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.annamayrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AnnaMayREALTOR
Why selected: Selected for her history-making community leadership as a former elected official and long-time Rotary International service. She combines this with a perfect 5-star rating across 27 reviews and over two decades of market expertise.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.
5.0 stars
21+ verified reviews
License: 00934170
Cassel & Brown Real Estate
18+ years experience
Contact
Phone: (510) 334-6952
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.cb-re.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AaronBrownEastBay
Why selected: Selected for his deep community roots and leadership as a Founding Partner of a respected local brokerage. He combines this with a 5-star rating across 21 reviews and over 400 successful transactions.
This agent passed the full merit gate (4.5+ stars, 10+ verified reviews in 24 months, 5+ years experience). All listed agents meet the same qualification standard.